Three Local "Arirang" Songs as Models for Teaching Korean Music in the Classroom

Park, Young Joo

Music Educators Journal, v100 n2 p45-51 Dec 2013

This article provides guidance for music teachers who want to introduce Korean folk music to their students. It introduces "Arirang"--both a specific folk song and a category--and describes three different versions: the "Miryang Arirang," the "Jindo Arirang," and the "Gyeonggi Arirang." The "Arirang" tune appears in many social contexts that can be shared with students; these examples show how well known the form has become worldwide. In addition, "Arirang" songs have rhythms and lyrics that lend themselves to being taught through a rich variety of listening and performing activities; they can also provide opportunities for student composition and improvisation. The article includes suggestions for presenting "Arirang" in the music classroom.